Mur, National Stem Week kicks off. Special dedication to Italian researchers in the Arctic

The 'National Week of Scientific, Technological, Engineering and Mathematical (STEM) Disciplines', promoted by the Ministry of Universities and Research (Mur), is back, with initiatives throughout Italy *from today until 11 February* to bring students closer to the study of scientific disciplines and to enhance the role of research.

The 2026 edition is dedicated to Italian researchers engaged in research activities in the Arctic, one of the most strategic and sensitive areas of the planet for the study of climate change and global environmental transformations. STEM Week is now in its third edition and was established by Law 187 of 2023. At the end of the initiatives, on 11 February, the _International Day of Women and Girls in Science_ will be celebrated.
The dedication to Arctic research enhances Italia's internationally recognised scientific contribution to the polar regions. A commitment that will also see our country play a leading role on 3 and 4 March, when Italia will host the _Arctic Circle Polar Summit_, an international event dedicated to the Arctic and its main scientific, environmental and geopolitical challenges.

"Studying STEM," explains the Minister for Universities and Research, Anna Maria Bernini, "means opening oneself up to extraordinary professional experiences: working in international contexts, measuring oneself against real challenges, contributing to projects that affect the future of the Planet. This is what our Arctic researchers do every day, and it is the value we want to pass on to the new generations. Dedicating the Week to them means recognising a scientific community of the highest calibre, a protagonist in major international networks and capable of generating knowledge, data and decisive solutions for the future of the planet. Investing in STEM means investing in the future not only of Italia but of the Planet'.

On the occasion of the _#STEM Week_, the MUR is launching a social campaign (https://www.instagram.com/reel/DUVBRIhAoIz/?igsh=cDFndTBrN3BpbGhy) aimed in particular at female students and students, realised in collaboration with the Research Institutions. Some of the events organised throughout Italia will be relaunched through the MUR's social channels. The complete calendar of initiatives is available on the Ministry's portal, in the section dedicated to STEM Week.